Reactions to emergencies vital for better outcomes
Business premises are just as vulnerable, and the risk of someone being injured on duty and needing emergency medical assistance is also high
Emergency situations arise quickly and knowing how to react can determine how the event unfolds – it can even mean the difference between life and death, says Charnel Hattingh, national marketing and communications manager at Fidelity ADT.
Hattingh explains that while the types of emergencies Fidelity ADT responds to at private residences are mostly the result of criminal activity, like an armed home invasion or driveway hijacking, fires and medical crises are also common cause for alarm.
Business premises are just as vulnerable, and the risk of someone being injured on duty and needing emergency medical assistance is also high, she adds.
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“Any of these situations are an emergency and will require some form of quick response,” Hattingh said.
“Although most people say they will do A, B and C in an emergency situation, few actually do react this way due to sheer panic and adrenalin taking over.
“It may not always be possible or safe to press a panic button while an incident is unfolding, but you should do this as soon as possible afterwards.
“In the event of a fire, for example, it is critical to get help on site as soon as possible and your priority should be to get the family to safety, not to try to put the flames out.”
Hattingh provides the following practical steps to incorporate into an emergency plan:
• Check your alarm and panic buttons are working properly.
• Know where mobile panic buttons are at all times.
• Identify the quickest routes out of the house/building in the event of a fire. Many windows have burglar bars and as a fire is unpredictable, you may need three or four escape route options.
• Each family member should have a responsibility should you need to evacuate the house quickly. Less time will be wasted if everyone works together as opposed to one person trying to manage and remember everything.
• Each family member should have a responsibility to check the house is secured before everyone goes to bed.
• Ensure at least two mobile phones are charged at all times and put emergency numbers on speed dial on every family member’s phone.
• Keep the number of your security company visible near a landline.
• Discuss scenarios and how to react to them, like being hijacked in the driveway or held up in the garden.
• Reinforce the importance of staying calm in an emergency and following your emergency plan.
• Practice your emergency routine regularly to ensure everyone keeps safety and security top of mind.
